Record-Breaking India Para Athletics Squad: A New Dawn for Inclusive Sports

Historic Milestone for Indian Para Sports

For the first time in its history, India will send its largest-ever contingent of debutants to a global para-athletics event. The 2025 Championships, scheduled from September 27 to October 5 in New Delhi, will feature a total of 52 athletes from India, with 35 of them stepping onto the world stage for the very first time.

This bold representation signals a shift in India’s approach to para sports from mere participation to active investment in nurturing world-class talent. The selection process was highly competitive, with athletes emerging from state-

level programs, specialized academies, and grassroots initiatives aimed at empowering differently-abled individuals.

Stories of Resilience and Grit

Behind every debutant lies a tale of courage and determination. Many of these athletes come from modest backgrounds, overcoming financial hardship, limited facilities, and societal barriers.

• A visually impaired sprinter from rural Bihar will compete internationally for the first time after years of training on uneven village tracks.

• A young wheelchair racer from Kerala, once a victim of a road accident, now symbolizes hope for others facing similar struggles.

These personal journeys elevate the squad’s participation beyond sports, embodying the transformative power of opportunity.

India as Host: More Than Just a Venue

Hosting the championships adds another layer of significance. New Delhi has undergone extensive preparations to meet international accessibility standards, ensuring both athletes and spectators experience a barrier-free environment. This is not just about medals it is about showcasing India as a global leader in inclusivity and adaptive sports infrastructure.

Sports authorities have also ramped up training support, with specialized coaching camps, physiotherapy, and mental conditioning programs designed to give Indian athletes the best chance to succeed on home turf.

A Step Toward a More Inclusive Future

This record-breaking squad is more than a headline; it represents a cultural shift. It challenges stereotypes, celebrates diversity, and redefines what sporting excellence looks like.

As the athletes take to the field later this month, they carry the dreams of millions. Regardless of the medal tally, India has already won by proving that ability, not disability, defines greatness.